First published in 1978, the book was translated into English in 2002. The Guardian wrote: "Nothing better is ever likely to be written on the subjective experience of cycle-racing."

The book is told from the point of view of a cyclist as he rides the Tour de Mont Aigoual. The col de Mont Aigoual (1507 meters) has been used once by the Tour de France in 1987. It is known as one of the cruelest stages of the Tour de France.

The book reminds of Ken Dryden's The Game. Both books use a small timeline to explore the author's life and his sport. I enjoyed the book and give it a solid "B".